Jennifer has been a student at Springbrook since 2007, starting as a day student and then moving into a campus residence. During her first few months living at Springbrook, Jennifer seemed withdrawn and often would not engage peers or staff members. This all changed when she realized there were other students who could benefit from her guidance, encouragement and sense of humor. She embraced her role as big sister with determination and fortitude. Jennifer took her creativity and dreams to a new plateau by creating and consistently advocating for a wish list for sunshine house. Jennifer has also shown interest in playing a part in the expansion at Springbrook, including a desire to assist in the design of the new homes.
Besides developmental disabilities, Jennifer also has juvenile diabetes. With the help of her mom, Eileen, Jennifer learned at a young age a lot about how to live a normal life with diabetes. Today, Jennifer can test her blood sugar, complete her calculations, administer her insulin shots and recognize when her blood sugar is too high or too low independently. She has become a role model for the other children living in her house with diabetes.
Along with being a mentor and advocate for others, Jennifer is also a team player. She is a member of the Springbrook Scorpions basketball team. In 2009, the Scorpions went to the New York State Special Olympics where the team won the gold medal.
